When not with students and families, Maria is in the field touring schools, meeting with admissions officers, engaging in essay writing webinars, and connecting with colleagues in different parts of the world. Maria has done the time-consuming research and costly travel visiting schools, and she brings this savings to you.

Act One clients experience highly individualized attention and access to the consultant outside traditional school hours. Tremendous thought and analysis go into each student’s trajectory—both as an applicant and lifelong learner. Some students need a gentle nudge, and others more guidance. We work together to develop transferable skills that build optimal school placement, academic success, and confidence. This investment in your talent and future opportunities extends into the classroom, a student’s self-awareness, values, and even time management. In other words, our work together will help you well beyond the application journey!

Maria is a college professor, so she spends time regularly with college students in their natural educational environment. She is immersed in the modern college world from the inside out. She knows firsthand what goes on in faculty meetings, and what higher ed leadership prioritizes, and she brings this expertise to you.

Whether college preparation begins in eighth grade or during senior year, the structure and guidance of the Act One process gives students the best chance at finding and getting into the right schools for them. It also empowers students to develop self-awareness, time management skills and goal setting. We take great pride in the fact many students return for college to career consulting.